Here are my top tips to avoid that Christmas pile on. You can still enjoy yourself, and eat and drink without putting on the extra pounds. The average person gains about 2 1/2 lbs over the festive period, but can increase the earlier you start and with the more you binge.

  1. Try to start each morning with hot lemon and water. This will wake up your digestion and give you a big dose of vitamin C and can reduce bloating.
  2. Fill up on protein. Have a protein rich breakfast, eggs, smoked salmon or omelette with avocado. This is fewer calories than a fry up and will still line your stomach for the day ahead.
  3. Be clever with your alcohol. The lower the alcohol content, the fewer the calories.  You can opt for gin and tonic, even tequilla with a twist of lime and tonic is a better option. Personally  my favourite tipple is prosecco, its cheaper than champagne and less calories!
  4. Do not forget the water. The more you eat and drink the more you are likely to pile on the pounds, so try alternating a glass of wine with a glass of water. This will also help with avoiding that Xmas hangover and afternoon slump.
  5. This is big one, watch your snacks!  Swap salty peanuts for unsalted fresh nuts. Try twiglets they are less fattening than crisps. Swap some sweets for satsumas or opt for darker chocolate in smaller portions. Take the icing of your piece of xmas cake or mince pie.

You can still enjoy your Xmas, but all in moderation. If you go off the rails for a couple of days, DON’T, beat yourself up.  For the following day or days reduce your intake or calories, sugar and bad fats, and drinks lots of water. Dont forget to go for a brisk walk or try a few exercise videos at home, I shall be posting some on my facebook page over the Xmas break. If all else fails, join me in classes in  January and we can get back on track together!

Merry Christmas xx